Roasted Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Looking for a tasty, healthy snack or appetizer? These Roasted Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are crispy, spicy, and packed with flavor. Perfect as a side or a game-day snack!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (approx. 1 cup per serving) 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Snack, Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American, Vegan, Vegetarian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower (cut into florets)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons hot sauce (or adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon crushed chili flakes
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Optional Substitutions:
- Swap hot sauce for a milder option, like barbecue sauce, if you prefer less heat.
- For a dairy-free ranch sauce, use vegan mayo or cashew cream instead of traditional sour cream.
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. -
Prepare the Hot Sauce Mixture
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, hot sauce, crushed chili flakes, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, lemon juice, and salt. Whisk until well combined. -
Coat the Cauliflower
Toss the cauliflower florets in the hot sauce mixture until each piece is evenly coated. -
Roast the Cauliflower
Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, tossing the cauliflower halfway through. The cauliflower should be golden brown and crispy around the edges when done. -
Prepare the Ranch Sauce
While the cauliflower is roasting, prepare your ranch dipping sauce. Blend together your choice of ingredients (such as Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic powder, and herbs) until smooth and creamy. -
Serve & Enjoy
Once your cauliflower is perfectly crispy, remove it from the oven. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately with your homemade ranch sauce.
Notes
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), here’s how to store and reheat your buffalo cauliflower bites:
- Storage: Place the cooled cauliflower bites in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: For the best texture, reheat in the oven at 375°F for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy again. You can also reheat in a skillet with a little oil for extra crunch.